Flash memory and storage
Top Stories
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Feature
28 Mar 2024
How Software-Enabled Flash could aid SSD management
A new development in flash storage could be a flexible option for any large-scale installation, as well as systems with custom software that's tuned for optimum performance. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2024
HPE GreenLake for File Storage update aimed at AI
HPE GreenLake has utilized new CPUs and denser SSDs to bring more AI and data lake workloads to customers looking for an alternative to the public cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2024
Pure Storage
Pure Storage is a provider of enterprise data flash storage products designed to substitute for electromechanical disk arrays. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Mar 2024
solid-state storage
Solid-state storage is a type of computer storage media that stores data electronically and has no moving parts. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Mar 2024
removable media
Removable media is any type of storage device that can be removed from a computer while the system is running. Removable media makes it easy for a user to move data from one computer to another. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2024
RAID 50 (RAID 5+0)
RAID 50, also known as RAID 5+0, combines distributed parity (RAID 5) with striping (RAID 0). It requires a minimum of six drives. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Mar 2024
NVRAM (non-volatile random access memory)
NVRAM (non-volatile random access memory) refers to computer memory that can hold data even when power to the memory chips has been turned off. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2024
HPE GreenLake for File Storage update aimed at AI
HPE GreenLake has utilized new CPUs and denser SSDs to bring more AI and data lake workloads to customers looking for an alternative to the public cloud. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2024
NetApp deepens storage offerings, security for AI buyers
New data protection and ransomware recovery features headline the latest NetApp updates. The vendor is also expanding its Nvidia partnership to ensure its offerings are AI-ready. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2024
IBM FlashSystem update focuses on ransomware detection
IBM FlashSystem builds on the ransomware fight in primary storage by adding AI to its FlashCore Module storage media and to Storage Defender, its data protection SaaS. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2024
RAM (random access memory)
Random access memory (RAM) is the hardware in a computing device that provides temporary storage for the operating system (OS), software programs and any other data in current use so they're quickly available to the device's processor. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2024
The promise of CXL still hangs in the balance
With AI pushing at the limits of hyperscaler environments, CXL offers a way to alleviate the memory problem. But it still requires a killer app if it's going to gain ground. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2024
7 causes of SSD failure and how to deal with them
Although SSDs are a reliable storage technology, they are still prone to occasional failure. Here are some best practices to keep your SSDs humming along. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Feb 2024
How can flape storage help my organization?
While flape was a concept coined by Wikibon back in 2012, now might be the time to employ the combination of flash and tape for a multi-tier storage system. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
computational storage
Computational storage is an IT architecture in which data is processed at the storage device level to reduce the amount of data that must move between the storage plane and the compute plane. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Feb 2024
How to employ conventional SSD management
In the conventional style, admins manage SSDs within the SSD. Best practices include using the trim command and occasionally checking the SSD's SMART attributes. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2024
Cloudian HyperStore 8 unites file, object storage
Cloudian's latest release of HyperStore lets hybrid storage deployments seamlessly swap between file and object. Analysts speculate how it will compete in a crowded market. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jan 2024
A pseudo-SLC flash primer: Benefits and drawbacks
Regardless of its use, pseudo-SLC represents a credible option for organizations considering multibit flash over SLC flash. The technology makes MLC and TLC function like SLC. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jan 2024
Nexsan adds data protection to NV6000 unified storage
Nexsan's new unified array, the NV6000, adds immutable snapshots that create an 'unbreakable' backup when combined with the vendor's Assureon backup appliance. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jan 2024
SSD write cycle
An SSD write cycle is the process of programming data to a NAND flash memory chip in a solid-state storage device. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jan 2024
How AI in SSDs could help enterprises
Several vendors are equipping SSDs with artificial intelligence. An AI SSD could help enterprises in such areas as management, performance and security. Continue Reading
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News
07 Dec 2023
Generative AI fuels demand for hybrid cloud storage in 2024
Object storage remains an important component of generative AI creation and training, driving enterprise IT teams to consider hybrid cloud storage for lower costs and more options. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Dec 2023
HDD form factor (hard disk drive form factor)
HDD form factor (hard disk drive form factor) is the size or geometry of a data storage device equipped with one or more magnetic-coated spinning platters and one or more moving actuator arms with magnetic heads to read and write information. Continue Reading
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News
17 Nov 2023
Nashville Electric selects Pure Storage to provide power
A Nashville-based power company decided to migrate off an outdated, ill-fitting Dell storage system to something more modern and more reasonable. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
Tier 0
Tier 0 is a level of data storage that is faster, and perhaps more expensive, than any other level in the storage hierarchy. Continue Reading
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News
30 Oct 2023
Western Digital to split flash, HDD business units in two
Western Digital will spin off its flash storage business into a separate company by the second half of 2024, leaving hard drives under the WD banner. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Oct 2023
NetApp aims to boost all-flash consolidation with ASA C-Series
NetApp's ability to deliver multi-cloud capabilities with Google and other cloud providers rather than as a storage-as-software deployment might accelerate multi-cloud operations. Continue Reading
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News
24 Oct 2023
NetApp adds new flash hardware, debuts VMware DR service
The enterprise storage vendor continues its hybrid cloud portfolio push with capacity flash for the ASA hardware family and bolts a VMware DR service to its BlueXP console. Continue Reading
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News
17 Oct 2023
Micron first to bring 232 layers to mainstream SSDs
The 7500, Micron's latest SSD, uses the company's 232-layer NAND technology to support a broad set of use cases at a lower price point than its high-end counterparts. Continue Reading
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News
02 Oct 2023
What a Western Digital-Kioxia merger might mean for NAND
Speculation that Kioxia and Western Digital could combine their NAND businesses is making rounds again. Analysts consider what it may mean for the flash memory market. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Sep 2023
How SSD encryption can protect enterprise data
It's easy for an SSD to fall into the wrong hands. Encryption, which is common in SSDs, is a powerful tool to protect mission-critical and personal data. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2023
Infinidat offers all-flash within a hybrid array
Infinidat places a virtual all-flash array in its hybrid storage system while doubling the capacity of InfiniBox SSA and carving it up for easier consumption. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Sep 2023
RAID 4 (redundant array of independent disks)
RAID 4 (redundant array of independent disks) is a RAID configuration that uses a dedicated parity disk and block-level striping across multiple disks. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
forward error correction (FEC)
Forward error correction (FEC) is a method for obtaining error control in data transmission in which the source (transmitter) sends redundant data and the destination (receiver) recognizes only the portion of the data that contains no apparent errors. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2023
SSD, flash memory advances to see slow walk to market
New SSDs and CXL memory modules were on display at the 2023 Flash Memory Summit, but it might take market adjustments, new infrastructure and time to reap the benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
RAID 6
RAID 6, also known as double-parity RAID, is one of several RAID schemes that work by placing data on multiple disks and enabling I/O operations to overlap in a balanced way, improving performance. Continue Reading
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News
11 Aug 2023
MemVerge, XConn, Samsung, H3 unite to show benefits of CXL
Four vendors combine technologies to demonstrate CXL memory pooling at the Flash Memory Summit and tout its benefits to use cases like generative AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2023
semiconductor fab
A semiconductor fab -- short for fabrication -- is a manufacturing plant in which raw silicon wafers are turned into integrated circuits (ICs). Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Aug 2023
serial peripheral interface (SPI)
A serial peripheral interface (SPI) is an interface commonly used in computers and embedded systems to facilitate short-distance communication between a microcontroller and one or more peripheral integrated circuits (ICs). Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Aug 2023
Computational storage SSD options vary in benefit level
Computational storage SSDs come in two major formats: programmable and fixed-function. They have stark differences in feature set and market acceptance. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2023
floating gate transistor (FGT)
A floating gate transistor (FGT) is a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology capable of holding an electrical charge in a memory device that is used to store data. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Jul 2023
IBM FlashSystem 5045 aids access to storage cyber resilience
As ransomware and other cyber attacks persist, enterprises should prioritize cyber resilience. IBM's FlashSystem 5045 improves accessibility for that protection. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jul 2023
flash memory card
A flash memory card -- sometimes called a storage card -- is a small storage device that uses non-volatile semiconductor memory to store data on portable or remote computing devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jul 2023
NVMe over Fabrics (NVMe-oF)
NVMe over Fabrics, also known as NVMe-oF and non-volatile memory express over fabrics, is a protocol specification designed to connect hosts to storage across a network fabric using the NVMe network protocol. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jul 2023
DreamWorks Animation taps NetApp in transition to cloud
DreamWorks Animation built a microservices-focused hybrid storage architecture by combining NetApp flash storage and software with Microsoft Azure cloud services. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
SmartNICs and the need for evolving network infrastructure
SmartNICs can meet the increasing demand for high performance, low latency and secure data transfer. But the implementation of smartNICs requires reliable network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2023
all-flash array (AFA)
An all-flash array (AFA), also known as a solid-state storage disk system or a solid-state array, is an external storage array that supports only flash media for persistent storage. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jul 2023
SAS vs. NVMe: The future of 2 key storage interfaces
In SAS vs. NVMe, both interfaces play significant roles in enterprise storage. See how they stack up in terms of performance, scalability, flexibility and manageability. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jul 2023
Explore benefits, tradeoffs with SLC vs. MLC vs. TLC and more
Learn the important capacity, performance and reliability differences among multilayer flash types, including SLC vs. MLC vs. TLC, and typical uses for each. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jul 2023
Flash memory guide to architecture, types and products
Flash memory, a staple of consumer electronics, is playing a wider role in enterprise storage. This guide offers an overview of flash, from current use cases to future directions. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2023
flash storage
Flash storage is any type of drive, repository or system that uses flash memory to write and store data for an extended period. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2023
EEPROM vs. flash memory: What's the difference?
Even though there might be a 10 million-to-one price-per-gigabyte difference between EEPROM and NAND flash, each memory type makes sense in its own role. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2023
PCIe SSD (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express solid-state drive)
A PCIe SSD (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express solid-state drive) is a high-speed expansion card that attaches a computer to its peripherals. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jun 2023
NVMe (non-volatile memory express)
NVMe (non-volatile memory express) is a transfer protocol created to accelerate the transfer speed of data in solid-state storage devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2023
QLC vs. TLC SSDs: Which is best for your storage needs?
QLC flash memory is best for most read-intensive workloads, while TLC is suited to write-dominant workloads. Discover how QLC vs. TLC NAND are coexisting in the data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jun 2023
A primer on SSD response time, other performance benchmarks
Consider several SSD performance benchmarks, including SSD response time, as key units of measurement. Also, note the difference between benchmarks and load generators. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
M.2 SSD
An M.2 SSD is a small form factor solid-state drive (SSD) that internally mounted storage expansion cards use. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
flash memory
Flash memory, also known as flash storage, is a type of nonvolatile memory that erases data in units called blocks and rewrites data at the byte level. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jun 2023
hybrid flash array
A hybrid flash array is a solid-state storage system that contains a mix of flash memory drives and hard disk drives. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jun 2023
Flash memory vs. RAM: What's the difference?
Even though vendors refer to flash memory and conventional RAM -- the main memory of a PC or server -- as solid-state memory, these two memory types are significantly different. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jun 2023
Charge trap technology advantages for 3D NAND flash drives
Flash drive cells based on charge trap technology have several advantages over older floating gate cells. However, take note of potential reliability issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jun 2023
5 NAND flash manufacturers balance performance, reliability
NAND flash manufacturers Kioxia, Micron, Samsung, SK Hynix and Western Digital offer varying levels of capacity. They also provide an assortment of uses. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Jun 2023
Pure flash storage evolves, puts HDD investments in question
Innovations in flash storage driving down cost might make it more difficult to justify investments in hard disk drives moving forward, Pure Storage CEO and others claim. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2023
Pure takes aim at HDDs with FlashArray for colder storage
Pure Storage added a new, cost-efficient model to its FlashArray line expanding potential uses cases. It's also rolling out new controller upgrades and data protection SLAs. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jun 2023
How to purchase SSDs during a NAND flash price drop
Although NAND prices are collapsing, that doesn't mean they will pop back up at some future date. It's rarely a good idea to purchase SSDs well before they are needed. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2023
SSD form factor
An SSD form factor is the size, configuration or physical arrangement of solid state storage media. The form factor determines the media's physical compatibility and interchangeability with other computer components or devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2023
write endurance
Write endurance is the number of program/erase (P/E) cycles that can be applied to a block of flash memory before the storage media becomes unreliable. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2023
NOR flash memory
NOR flash memory is one of two types of non-volatile storage technologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
Evaluate flash memory advantages and disadvantages
Flash memory and solid-state devices have revolutionized storage, but to deploy them effectively, you must understand their advantages and disadvantages. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 May 2023
3D NAND flash
3D NAND is a type of non-volatile flash memory in which the memory cells are stacked vertically in multiple layers. Continue Reading
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News
18 May 2023
DDN launches all-QLC ExaScaler
The all-QLC ExaScaler scale-out parallel file system from DDN slots in between performance and costs. It comes at a time when AI workloads are on the rise. Continue Reading
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News
16 May 2023
Micron 6500 Ion increases layers over 200, lowers price
Micron expanded its enterprise SSD portfolio with the 232-layer Micron 6500 Ion to lower costs and the Micron XTR, a new SLC, to increase overall performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 May 2023
NAND flash memory
NAND flash memory is a type of non-volatile storage technology that does not require power to retain data. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2023
Storage's role in generative AI
Generative AI continues to create industry buzz. Experts say storage plays a critical role in making the technology run. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Apr 2023
Choose between NAND vs. NOR flash memory
When comparing NAND flash memory to NOR, it's important to examine the structural differences to understand which type of non-volatile memory is best suited for some applications. Continue Reading
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News
07 Apr 2023
The potential effects of Pure Storage's 300 TB SSDs
Pure Storage plans to have 300 TB SSD modules by 2026, potentially putting other HDD- and SSD-based systems at a scalability disadvantage. But with two-plus years to go, that advantage could change. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2023
Compare DRAM vs. DRAM-less SSDs for cost, performance
Are DRAM-less SSDs the way of the future? While they're a great fit for hyperscale data centers, other organizations may also find benefits, such as cost. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Mar 2023
Understand how the CXL SSD can aid performance
Although CXL SSDs are only in the research phase, their performance shows promise. When used as simple memory extensions, they should improve programs that manage large data sets. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Mar 2023
How SSD data reduction can help enterprises
Data reduction techniques have been difficult to achieve on SSDs, but vendors appear to be making progress. The more effective the data reduction, the more affordable SSDs become. Continue Reading
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News
01 Mar 2023
Pure aims new FlashBlade//E at unstructured data market
Pure Storage expanded its storage offerings with FlashBlade//E designed for the unstructured data market with an acquisition cost on par with hybrid storage. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2023
magnetic field strength
Magnetic field strength is a measure of the intensity of a magnetic field in a given area of that field. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2023
Vast Data expands data services for file and object
Vast Data Universal Storage brought out data services, including set performance, metadata cataloging, better security, container integration and snapshots. Continue Reading
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Opinion
10 Feb 2023
Why QLC flash changes the hybrid cloud equation
In the debates of hard drives vs. flash and on vs. off premises, the answer is often not just one over the other. However, surging QLC flash technology offers many benefits. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2023
NetApp adds storage buying options, arrays
NetApp introduces a myriad of buying options and hybrid cloud capabilities for VMware workloads on Google Cloud. Soon-to-come: new QLC all-flash arrays. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Feb 2023
Volatile times for non-volatile memory as NAND sales decline
All the major NAND vendors are seeing poor earnings as the demand for flash storage has dried up over the last two quarters. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
26 Jan 2023
Understand SSD overheating and what to do about it
It's easy for an SSD to overheat, but there are several methods to cool it down. Keep cool, and avoid damage to the SSD's data retention and integrity. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
Micron's 9400 U.3 SSD aimed at AI, ML workloads
Micron has expanded its NVMe SSD portfolio with the 9400 U.3, a TLC drive designed to provide high-performance storage for high-performance use cases. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2022
inductor
An inductor is a passive electronic component that temporarily stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through the inductor's coil. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Dec 2022
microchip
A microchip -- also called a chip, computer chip or integrated circuit (IC) -- is a unit of integrated circuitry that is manufactured at a microscopic scale using a semiconductor material, such as silicon or, to a lesser degree, germanium. Continue Reading
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News
09 Nov 2022
Samsung begins producing 1 terabit TLC NAND
Samsung has begun mass production on its latest generation of V-NAND, bringing 1 terabit per chip to raise density and increase speed. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2022
Promises, potential pitfalls of software-enabled flash
An open source project is aiming to upend how storage architecture runs, but for developers to see potential gains, they'll have to invest in both hardware and software. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Oct 2022
Filmmaker uses NAS storage for better collaboration
With normal workflows out the window, horror filmmaker Damien LeVeck eased the collaborative movie editing process by going all-in with Blackmagic Cloud Store. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2022
EPROM (erasable programmable read-only memory)
EPROM (erasable programmable read-only memory) is memory that does not lose its data when the power supply is cut off. Continue Reading
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News
07 Oct 2022
Micron investment to spark chip ecosystem in New York
The $100 billion plan aims to bring businesses and thousands of workers to the Syracuse, N.Y., area -- and boost the chip supply for the IT staples and innovations CIOs pursue. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Sep 2022
State tax agency nixes slow HDD backup for speedier flash
The Mississippi Department of Revenue chose an all-flash storage and backup setup to maximize app performance and minimize headaches after a spinning-platter disaster. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Sep 2022
memory management unit (MMU)
A memory management unit (MMU) is a computer hardware component that handles all memory and caching operations associated with the processor. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2022
electric field strength
Electric field strength is a quantitative expression of the intensity of an electric field at a particular location. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2022
permittivity (electric permittivity)
Permittivity (electric permittivity) is defined as the ratio of electric displacement to the electric field intensity. Continue Reading
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News
21 Sep 2022
IntelliProp CEO describes how CXL will change memory market
In this Q&A, IntelliProp CEO John Spiers talks about his vision for CXL and how it will affect both storage performance and the storage market. Continue Reading
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News
08 Sep 2022
NAND prices drop, but customers won't benefit
Supply chain disruptions, recession fears and war in Ukraine have helped push the price of NAND down sharply, but OEMs may not lower their prices any time soon. Continue Reading
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News
26 Aug 2022
The legacy of Optane goes on
Intel's storage class memory has ceased production, but the technology and the mission for cheaper, more performant storage disrupted an entire market. Continue Reading
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News
25 Aug 2022
Kioxia looks back at 35 years of NAND -- and at what's ahead
Kioxia invented NAND memory 35 years ago. At FMS, the company highlighted the technological achievements of NAND while introducing new SSDs and protocols. Continue Reading